It’s important that patients, families and caregivers consider sepsis as a possibility when someone is unwell with an infection. Early recognition, timely treatment, and infection prevention all matter.

• Sepsis is a medical emergency. Time matters. If you suspect sepsis or an infection is not improving (or is worsening), seek urgent medical help.
• Any infection can lead to sepsis. Higher risk includes adults 65+, people with chronic conditions (e.g. diabetes, lung disease, cancer, kidney disease), weakened immune systems, sepsis survivors, and children under 1.

Urgent warning signs in adults

Seek medical help urgently if you (or another adult) develops any one of the following:

• Slurred speech or confusion
• Extreme shivering or muscle pain
• Passing no urine (in a day)
• Severe breathlessness
• It feels like you’re going to die
• Skin mottled or discoloured

If symptoms are severe, call 999. Otherwise call 111 or attend A&E.

Treatment for sepsis

When detected early, treatment for sepsis is started in hospital straight away. It can worsen quickly.

Treatment may include antibiotics to fight infection, fluids to support circulation and kidneys, and oxygen if required. Once the cause is identified, antibiotics may be adjusted.

You may need other tests or treatments depending on symptoms, including:

• Treatment in an intensive care unit
• A machine to help you breathe (ventilator)
• Surgery to remove areas of infection

Recovering from sepsis

Many people recover well, but recovery can take time. Some physical and emotional effects can last months (sometimes longer).

Some people experience longer-term effects after sepsis, which can include:

• Feeling very tired and weak, and difficulty sleeping
• Lack of appetite
• Getting ill more often
• Mood changes, anxiety or depression
• Nightmares or flashbacks
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)